Senior Generation Applications Support Specialist Becky Whitenack has been named SWEPCO’s 2025 Volunteer of the Year.

SWEPCO President Brett Mattison presented her with the award during an April recognition lunch in Shreveport that honored employees who make a meaningful difference in their communities through volunteer service.

Becky is known across East Texas for her unwavering commitment to helping others. In 2025, she gave her time, energy, and heart to organizations that strengthen families, support youth, and uplift neighbors in need. Whether she’s mentoring a local Girl Scout troop, serving with the Judson Lions Club, or serving dinner at House for Hope, Becky is always ready to step in and serve.

Her impact extends even further. Becky regularly supports back-to-school drives, community resource fairs, and holiday food-box distributions—ensuring families have what they need during the moments that matter most.

“Becky’s dedication to her community is extraordinary,” said SWEPCO President and COO Brett Mattison. “Her passion for service and her willingness to show up wherever she’s needed make her an incredible example of what volunteerism looks like at its best. We are proud to recognize her as SWEPCO’s 2025 Volunteer of the Year.”

Becky’s contributions not only uplift individuals but strengthen the fabric of the East Texas community she loves.

"I've been a volunteer since I was in high school," she said. "I do it for those individuals because I know it makes a difference in their lives, and I want to be that person making a difference in their life." 

In addition to Becky’s recognition, several other employees were honored for their service and commitment to organizations across the region. These individuals were selected based on volunteer activities logged through the Caring Together portal, a tool that helps employees discover volunteer opportunities and track their service throughout the year.

The nine volunteer service honorees include:

Trent Airhart, Senior Lineman, Hornback, La.
Trent dedicates his time to supporting Purple Heart veterans through his volunteer work with the Warrior Bonfire Program. Last year, he led fishing outings that provide combat-wounded- veterans with a peaceful space to connect, heal, and build camaraderie. By creating meaningful experiences on the water, Trent helps ensure these veterans feel honored, supported, and reminded of the strong community standing behind them. His commitment to serving those who have sacrificed so much reflects both his generosity and his deep respect for our nation’s heroes.

Lindsay Bates, Distribution Dispatcher, Shreveport, La.

Lindsay is a passionate advocate for local veterans, dedicating her time and talents to both the Lowe McFarlane American Legion Post 14 and the American Legion Auxiliary Unit 14 in Shreveport, La. She plays a key role in organizing meaningful fundraisers that directly support veterans and the programs that uplift them. Beyond her fundraising efforts, Lindsay helps coordinate a variety of community activities at the American Legion Post, ensuring veterans and their families feel supported, connected, and celebrated throughout the year.

Carrie Doerge, Customer Services Account Representative, Henderson, Texas  

Carrie is deeply committed to supporting youth and community traditions across Rusk County, Texas. She volunteers her time coordinating and working at several Christmas parades, helping bring holiday cheer to families and local neighborhoods. In addition to her event support, she serves on the boards of both the Rusk County Youth Project Show and the Rusk County Aggie Moms, where she plays an active role in organizing programs that uplift area students and families. Carrie also assists her local school district with its annual candy sale, ensuring students have the resources they need for a successful year. Her dedication and community spirit shine through every project she takes on.

Tyler Howard, Maintenance Mechanic in Pittsburg, Texas

Tyler is devoted to supporting young athletes in his community through his volunteer work with the Texarkana Baseball Association. He serves as the head coach for one team and an assistant coach for another in a different age group, giving him the opportunity to mentor players at multiple stages of their development. Beyond coaching, Tyler is an active member of the park board of directors, where he plays a key role in shaping the future of the facilities and programs. When he’s not on the field, he spends much of his time maintaining the park and its fields, ensuring every team has a safe, well-kept place to play. His steady leadership, hands-on dedication, and passion for creating a positive environment reflect his commitment to helping the next generation grow, learn, and succeed both in sports and in life.

Anthony Puentes, Sr. Transmission Line Crew Supervisor, Gilmer, Texas

Community involvement comes naturally to Anthony, who brings the same enthusiasm to local events and youth programs as he does to his work in the field. He has proudly participated in the Pittsburg Chamber Chili Cookoff, helping energize one of the community’s favorite annual gatherings. Anthony also devotes his time to the Texas Saints American Legion Baseball Post 17 in Hawkins, Texas, where he serves as an assistant coach. In this role, he mentors young athletes, encouraging teamwork, discipline, and confidence both on and off the field. His steady commitment to service reflects his deep belief in strengthening the community through connection and mentorship.

David Rumsey, Outage Coordinator, Turk Plant, Fulton, Ark.

David sacrifices not only his time but his safety each time he volunteers. Since late 2006, he has served as part of the reserve unit at the Atlanta Police Department. Early in his career, while working at Welsh, he attended the police academy at night. He now spends hundreds of hours each year patrolling or covering shifts, occasionally alongside his wife, who is a full-time officer with the Atlanta Police Department. In addition to being a Sergeant of the reserve department, David volunteers throughout the year at multiple school and city events in his hometown.

Quentin Smith, SWEPCO Regional Business Manager in Pittsburg, Texas

Quentin dedicates his time to uplifting local youth and supporting community initiatives. He actively participates in the Tulsa Community Service Project and organizes youth camps at the First Pentecostal Church of Daingerfield, where he also leads fundraising efforts for youth missions. Quentin's passion for community service is evident in his commitment to fostering a positive environment for the next generation.

Cheston Wilson, Instrument & Controls Technician, Welsh Plant, Pittsburg, Texas

Cheston volunteers his time supporting young athletes through his work with the Camp County Sports Association, a baseball and softball organization in Pittsburg that provides opportunities for players of all skill levels, ages 3 to 14. As head coach and CCSA president of baseball, he helps guide and mentor players, fostering their confidence, teamwork, and love for the game. His commitment to creating a positive and inclusive environment for youth athletes reflects his dedication to strengthening the community and investing in its next generation.

Travis Zappa, Wildfire Mitigation and Response Lead, Longview, Texas

Travis serves his East Texas community with distinction as a volunteer firefighter. Since 2003, he has dedicated countless hours to answering the call with the Diana Volunteer Fire Department in Upshur County. His service extends beyond fire response to include medical calls, motor vehicle accidents, and disaster response—particularly following severe storms—by clearing roadways and assisting in the rescue of residents from damaged homes. He also supports local community activities and provides fire prevention and safety education to students at the local elementary school. In addition, Travis volunteers at his home church as needs arise.